Anna Maria Island Sun February 2, 2022

- Named Best Florida Newspaper In Its Class -

VOL 22 No. 17

February 2, 2022

New owners for Beach Bistro

After 36 years in business, restaurateurs Sean Murphy and Susan Timmins have handed over the reins of their signature restaurant, the Beach Bistro, to a new ownership team.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

SUBMITTED | BEACH BISTRO

HOLMES BEACH – It’s the end of an era at the Beach Bistro.

The award-winning beachfront restaurant’s owners of more than 36 years, Sean Murphy and Susan Timmins, have sold the restaurant to Anna Maria Island developer Shawn Kaleta and attorney Louis Najmy.

The change of ownership was announced on Jan. 27 in a newsletter emailed to fans of the restaurant. The same day, a change was registered with the Florida Secretary of State naming Najmy Thompson P.L. as the registered agent for

Located right on the sand, the Beach Bistro has an excellent sunset view. Couple Sean Murphy and Susan Timmins opened the Beach Bistro at its current location in 1986.

SEE BISTRO, PAGE 21

Voyles, Murphy chosen as Citizens of the Year

AME reports first staff COVID cases of school year

BY JASON SCHAFFER

Joan Voyles and Barbara Murphy were honored for their community involvement.

SUN CORRESPONDENT | jschaffer@amisun.com

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Joan Voyles and Barbara Murphy have been named the city of Anna Maria’s Distinguished Citizens of the Year.

The two were recognized in a ceremony at Anna Maria City Hall during the Jan. 27 city commission meeting. Maureen Dye nominated Voyles and Nancy Flynn nominated Murphy for the award.

Although they weren’t selected, Commission Chair Carol Carter nominated Debbie Greenspan and SEE CITIZENS, PAGE 24

INSIDE NEWS OUTDOORS CASTLES IN THE SAND REAL ESTATE OBITUARIES SPORTS CROSSWORD

4 18-19 22 22-26 27 28 29

CITY OF ANNA MARIA | SUBMITTED

From left, presenter Marsha McAllister, award winners Joan Voyles and Barbara Murphy and presenter Kathy Patten participated in the awards ceremony.

HOLMES BEACH - After being the only school in Manatee County with no staff COVID-19 cases, Anna Maria Elementary School is reporting two staff cases and two new student cases since Jan. 24 on the Manatee County Schools COVID dashboard.

The county does not release information on which staff members tested positive or any other specifics, but AME continues to have one of the lowest number of COVID cases among both staff and students in the county, with 19 student cases.

While COVID numbers in Manatee are slowly decreasing, the virus continues to rise in schools, with almost 500 new cases among students and 76 new cases among staff.

Wearing masks continues to be an option, not a mandate, for students at all Manatee County schools, including AME. The schools encourage social distancing, hand-washing and wearing masks, but no child can be forced to do so under current Florida law.

ANNA MARIA

HOLMES Beach eyes 25 mph

honors Sheriff’s Deputy Steve Stewart. 15

speed limit citywide. 5 SEARCH continues for leaks at Piney Point gyp stack. 8

Anna Maria Island, Florida

The Island’s award-winning weekly newspaper www.amisun.com

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FEBRUARY 2, 2022

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FEBRUARY 2, 2022

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Commissioners plan for county meeting Holmes Beach commissioners are planning their talking points for a joint meeting with Manatee County commissioners.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – City and county commissioners are preparing for a face-to-face meeting tentatively scheduled for March, and Holmes Beach commissioners are getting their talking points in order for discussion on several topics.

At a Jan. 25 work session, Mayor Judy Titsworth and city commissioners discussed coming up with a game plan for how to approach the meeting. Commissioners decided they need to present a united front to the county representatives, however, rather than appointing Titsworth to speak on behalf of the city, she asked that all commissioners be prepared to lead and participate in the discussions that they’re passionate about.

Titsworth said she is hoping for a productive dialogue with county

commissioners and wants to make sure Holmes Beach city leaders take full advantage of the opportunity.

The joint meeting will be open to the public.

Some items for discussion proposed by Titsworth and Holmes Beach commissioners include: • Increasing the amount of funding offered by the county for Holmes Beach police officers to patrol county-maintained beaches, beach parking and boat ramps.

• Expanding the use of tourist development tax funds, a large majority of which is collected from vacation rentals on Anna Maria Island, to include money for bike lanes, sidewalks, street lighting, landscape, pedestrian accesses, stormwater improvements and other projects to make Holmes Beach a safer, more welcoming place for both tourists and residents.

• Stemming the effects of red tide, blue-green algae and other issues that adversely affect the water quality in and around Holmes Beach and the aquatic ecosystem.

• Reviewing the improvements planned to take place at the King-

fish Boat Ramp and how they affect parking and picnic facilities at the park. Specifically, Titsworth said she’d like to see the removal of some parking spaces on the south side of Manatee Avenue delayed until construction on the new Anna Maria Island Bridge begins. Removal of the spaces, she said, would adversely affect the boaters who come to Kingfish to launch their boats.

Also, the addition of parallel parking spaces by the existing picnic area would remove trees needed for shade and trees used by great blue herons for nesting.

• Creating a better flow of communication between city and county officials concerning events and additional parking planned at Manatee Beach and the Island Branch Library.

• Examining unchecked development and growth in Manatee County as it pertains to the increase in the number of potential users for Island beaches. Titsworth suggested speaking with county commissioners about the beach carrying capacity for the Island and asking county officials to fund a beach carrying

capacity study, as meets the Florida Department of Environmental Protection beach carrying capacity standard, to determine if the number of people regularly coming to Island beaches is too much for the beach, natural resources and existing infrastructure to handle.

One of the major items anticipated to be discussed is beach parking.

Titsworth said she believes county leaders will push for Holmes Beach commissioners to open more residential street parking during the day for beachgoers, and she reminded commissioners the city provides more than the number of public parking spaces required to receive beach renourishment funding from the state of Florida.

Though required to only provide 324 spaces to receive beach renourishment funding, the city’s interlocal agreement with Manatee County requires just over 500 spaces to be made available for beach parking.

Currently, the city of Holmes Beach provides more than 1,200 public parking spaces for beach access.

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ISLAND NEWS

IN BRIEF

Murder Mystery is out of this world The 13th Annual Murder Mystery dinner theater at The Center of Anna Maria Island is poised to be two nights of galactic proportions. The theme for this year’s two-night extravaganza, on Friday, Feb. 18 and Saturday, Feb. 19, is Space Odyssey. Written SUBMITTED | THE CENTER and directed by Brianna Roberts, the play will have a different ending each night of the performance. Starring in the out-of-this-world production are Don and Leah Purvis, Ray and Jillian Gardner, Monica Simpson, Mike Shaughnessy, Chris Scott, Clay Spangler, and Caleb and Brianna Roberts. Tickets include dinner and the show and are on sale now for $55 each or $400 for a table of eight. A cash bar and raffle items will be available during the show as well as a space-themed costume contest. Mingle with the cast before the fun begins for an extra $25. Sponsorships also are available. The Murder Mystery is for adults only.

For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit www.centerami.org/events.

For more news, visit amisun.com.

Scan this code with your smartphone to go there.

FEBRUARY 2, 2022

Fines levied for Coconuts owners

Code compliance officers are bringing unit owners at The Coconuts before the city’s special magistrate for VRC violations.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Special magistrate Michael Connolly isn’t pulling any punches when it comes to renting vacation rental units for a shorter amount of time than is required by city codes.

During a Jan. 19 code compliance special magistrate hearing, Connolly found violations against the owners of several units at The Coconuts, a beachfront vacation rental complex, some of whom received fines during the hearing.

Representing owner Flehd Property Service Advertising and Management Inc. at the hearing was Emily Werner. In the case of unit 105/104A, Werner said a notice of violation from code compliance officers was received on Dec. 8 and all bookings of less than seven nights were corrected beginning Dec. 9, though she was unaware whether any existing bookings of less than seven days needed to be canceled. Werner added that now she is aware of the issue, the remaining existing bookings for less than seven nights were being

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Holmes Beach city leaders are cracking down on rentals at The Coconuts for periods of less than seven nights. canceled or amended to meet the city’s requirements.

Connolly found a violation in the case and assessed administrative costs of $127.24 but didn’t grant the city’s petition to assess a daily fine.

In the case of unit 103/102B, owned by Flehd Modern Inc., Connolly found that renting for less than seven nights was a repeat violation and assigned a fine of $250 per day from Dec. 9 for the days that the property violated the city vacation rental certificate ordinance. That makes a total fine of $10,000 as of the Jan. 19 hearing, with fines continuing to grow daily until the property comes into compliance, plus costs of $127.24.

For unit 110/203A, attorney

Roser Church

“...a beautiful place to explore your faith...”

Louis Najmy took to the podium, along with co-counsel Michelle Grantham, to represent owner 100 73rd 203A LLC. The case brought before Connolly was a repeat violation for an improper length of stay, less than seven nights. Najmy argued that his client had made every effort to extend all of the existing reservations to seven nights to meet city codes and that now the rentals at the unit comply. He and Grantham also argued that improper notice of the code hearing was given, despite code officers stating under oath that notices were posted at the property and hand delivered to Najmy’s law office.

SEE COCONUTS, PAGE 19

SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:30 AM or 10:00 AM IN PERSON in the Sanctuary Nursery • Children’s Church ONLINE • Watch LIVE or LATER

RoserChurch.com

Text ROSER to 22828 to receive the weekly eBulletin The CHAPEL is open during office hours for prayer and meditation 941-778-0414 • 512 Pine Ave, Anna Maria • FOLLOW us on Facebook @RoserChurch

FEBRUARY 2, 2022

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Proposed speed limit reduction moving to vote An ordinance changing the speed limit in Holmes Beach to 25 mph on all city streets is on its way to adoption if it passes two votes by commissioners.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – Drivers may soon have to slow down when traveling through Holmes Beach and it won’t be because of the low-speed vehicles that travel on city streets.

Commissioners considered a proposal to lower the speed limit on all city streets to 25 mph at a Jan. 25 work session, agreeing to move the issue forward to a regular meeting for a public hearing and the first of two votes.

If the measure passes both votes by commissioners, the 25 mph speed limit will apply to all city streets, but not the two state roads located in Holmes Beach, which are governed by the state of Florida. The speed limits on Manatee Avenue and East Bay Drive will remain the same unless changed by

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Signs like this one advertising a speed limit of 35 mph soon may be a thing of the past in Holmes Beach except on state roads. the Florida Department of Transportation.

The idea was floated by Police Chief Bill Tokajer in response to safety concerns about speeding vehicles on city streets and the potential hazards to pedestrians, bicyclists and operators of golf carts and low-speed vehicles (LSVs).

An LSV is a mini car, golf cart or other type of lower speed vehicle that is required to be registered with the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles to be street legal.

Most travel at a top speed of 25-30 mph. A golf cart is a traditional golf cart meant for use on a golf course that is not required to be registered

through the DMV and travels at a maximum speed lower than 25 mph. City Attorney Erica Augello said that once a golf cart exceeds 20 mph, it is technically considered an LSV. Issues that officers are seeing on Holmes Beach roadways include LSV drivers pulling over into bicycle lanes to allow motor vehicles to pass them, drivers traveling faster than the posted speed limit and golf carts traveling on roads with 35 mph speed limits, where they’re not allowed.

By lowering the speed limit citywide to 25 mph, Tokajer said it would ease sign pollution, make it easier for drivers of all kinds to know what the speed limit is, especially on Palm/Marina drives where it changes every few blocks, reduce confusion about where LSVs are allowed to be operated and allow officers to focus on keeping LSVs and golf carts off Manatee Avenue and East Bay Drive.

Commissioners will consider the ordinance at an upcoming meeting not yet scheduled.

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OPINION

The Anna Maria Island Sun newspaper 3909 East Bay Drive, Suite 210, Holmes Beach, FL, 34217 Phone: (941) 778-3986 email: news@amisun.com | ads@amisun.com | classifieds@amisun.com

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FEBRUARY 2, 2022

The Anna Maria Island Sun Staff Publishers Mike Field Maggie Field Editor/CEO Mike Field Layout Ricardo Fonseca Reporters Cindy Lane Joe Hendricks Kristin Swain Jason Schaffer Columnists Louise Bolger Outdoors Editor Rusty Chinnis Advertising director Shona Otto Ad assistant Pamela Lee

Classified ads Bob Alexander Graphics Elaine Stroili Ricardo Fonseca Digital/Social Media Editor Cindy Lane Accounting John Reitz Leslie Ketchum Distribution Bob Alexander Tony McNulty Connor Field Contributors Tom Vaught Steve Borggren Monica Simpson

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Support clam and seagrass restoration I would like to start by saying something a great friend of mine would say to me when we were out fishing: “We have taken too

much from the sea, it’s time to give something back.”

To me, one way to give something back is to support Ed Chiles, his All Clams on Deck initiative and his proposed clam and seagrass restoration projects in and around the city of Anna Maria.

Our seagrasses are in trouble, our

water quality has gotten worse and these initiatives would help immensely. I’m asking the people of Anna Maria and the Anna Maria City Commission to support these initiatives. Thank you so much.

Scott Moore Holmes Beach

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FEBRUARY 2, 2022

ON THE AGENDA ANNA MARIA

10005 GULF DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-6130

Please visit www.cityofannamaria.com or contact city hall for more information.

Feb. 10, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting Feb. 21, all day – City offices closed for President’s Day Feb. 23, 2 p.m. – City Commission meeting

BRADENTON BEACH

107 GULF DRIVE N. FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-778-1005

Please visit www.cityofbradentonbeach.com or contact city hall for more information.

Feb. 2, 9:30 a.m. – Community Redevelopment Agency meeting Feb. 2, 2 p.m. – Scenic WAVES meeting Feb. 3, 6 p.m. – City Commission meeting Feb. 16, 1 p.m. – Planning and Zoning board meeting Feb. 17, noon – City Commission meeting Feb. 21, all day – City offices closed for President’s Day

HOLMES BEACH

5801 MARINA DRIVE FOR INFORMATION, CALL 941-708-5800

Please visit www.holmesbeachfl. org or contact city hall for more information.

Feb. 2, 10 a.m. – Parks and Beautification committee meeting Feb. 8, 5 p.m. – City Commission meeting followed by work session Feb. 9, 10 a.m. – Clean Water AdHoc committee meeting Feb. 9, 5 p.m. – Planning Commission meeting Feb. 10, 10 a.m. – Code Compliance special magistrate hearing Feb. 21, all day – City offices closed for President’s Day Feb. 22, 5 p.m. – City Commission meeting followed by work session MARKYOUR CALENDAR

ISLAND-WIDE

Feb. 15, 2 p.m. – Coalition of Barrier Island Elected Officials meeting, Holmes Beach City Hall Feb. 15, 6 p.m. – West Manatee Fire Rescue district board of commissioners meeting, administration building, 701 63rd St. W., Bradenton

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 2

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Ukulele instruction, beyond beginner, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 1 p.m. Reserve online manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/8486414 Ukulele instruction, beginner, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina

Drive, Holmes Beach, 2:45 p.m.

Reserve online manateelibrary. libcal.com/event/8486474 Tortoise talk, Valentine House, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 3:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, FEB. 3

AMI Chamber Sunrise Breakfast, Compass Hotel, 12324 Manatee Ave., Bradenton, 7:30-9 a.m., $10 for members or $18 for prospective members. Register online at www. amichamber.org or email becky@ amichamber.org RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations welcome.

“Dive into Reading” presented by John and Amanda Horne, Lecture and Travel Series presented by the Friends of the Island Library, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 2 p.m.

Sunshine Stitchers knit and crochet, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Reserve online www.manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/8486574 Thursdays in Paradise Stroll featuring local art, music and food, Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, 5-8 p.m.

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FRIDAY, FEB. 4

Invasive Plant Roundup, Robinson Preserve, 10299 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. Reserve to michelle.leahy@mymanatee.org or call 941-742-5923 ext. 6035 Forty Carrots, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Reserve online www.manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/8486850 Mahjong Club, experienced players, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 11:30 a.m. Reserve online www.manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/8486613 Paper crafting, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Reserve online manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/8826689

SATURDAY, FEB. 5

Robinson Runners, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 8 a.m.

Tour the Valentine House, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Saturday mornings at the NEST, Robinson Preserve Mosaic Nest, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 9 a.m. to noon. Face masks required.

Ask a Master Gardener, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive,

Holmes Beach, 10 a.m. Reserve to manateelibrary.libcal.com/ event/8486647 Paper crafting, Island Branch Library, 5701 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 2 p.m. Reserve to manateelibrary.libcal.com/event/8826690 Seeing Stars, Robinson Preserve, 1704 99th St. N.W., Bradenton, 6:30 p.m.

SUNDAY, FEB. 6

Farm stand, Holmes Beach City Hall, 5801 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach, 8-10 a.m.

Beach market, Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Rise and Shine Yoga, Robinson Preserve Mosaic NEST, 840 Ninth Ave. N.W., Bradenton, 10:30 a.m., $10. Register and pay online https://parks.mymanatee. org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/search. html?primarycode=110006

TUESDAY, FEB. 8

Farmer’s market, City Pier Park, 103 N. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

RoserRobics, Roser Church, 512 Pine Ave., Anna Maria, 9:30 a.m., no cost but donations are welcome.

LOOKING TO THE PAST TO SEE THE FUTURE

TASTE the reel

MAR VISTA.

MarVistaDining.com

A community in the north end of Longboat Key, formerly called Longbeach and now NQRZQ DV /RQJERDW 9LOODJH KDV D KLVWRU\ ¿OOHG ZLWK IDUPLQJ DQG ¿VKLQJ DQG IHUULHV WKDW WUDQVported passengers and cargo to and from Tampa %D\ 7KH PDMRU LWHPV WUDQVSRUWHG ZHUH IUHVK ¿VK and produce carried on ice to the railroad in Tampa that then connected to northern markets.

The only way to reach Longbeach in the early 1900’s was by water.

A structure known today as the Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant, built in 1913, is one of the oldest structures on Longboat. Early developer Rufus Johnson used a block making machine to construct many of the early residences including the Mar Vista. Stone blocks were made on or near the construction site. The next owners turned WKH KRXVH LQWR ¿YH UHQWDO DSDUWPHQWV DQG LQ QHZ RZQHUV EXLOW 7KH 3XE &RFNWDLO /RXQJH D ¿VK camp selling bait, tackle and beer.

The Mar Vista was purchased in 1989 by the Chiles Group, a local company focused on socially conscious best practices. A good portion of WKH YHJHWDEOHV IUXLW DQG ÀRZHUV XVHG DW WKH 0DU Vista (and their two sister restaurants, the Beach House and the Sandbar on Anna Maria Island) are grown in Parrish at an organic 26-acre farm called Gamble Creek Farm, owned by the same company. Menu items like the legendary Gamble Creek Farms collard greens and the sustainably sourced crab cakes are served with herbs or vegetables from Gamble Creek Farm.

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Mar Vista Executive Chef Seth Kondor takes great pride in serving seafood and farm-totable creations and is quick to point out comSDQ\ H൵RUWV WR SURWHFW WKH HQYLURQPHQW ³:H are excited to be part of a pilot program with Solutions to Avoid Red Tide (START) and have ten mini-reefs installed under our public docks.

The structures improve water clarity and increase oxygen levels in the water, which can clean more than 30,000 gallons of water daily and grow more WKDQ ¿VK DQG FUDEV DQQXDOO\´ :LWK DQ H\H RQ WKH SDVW QHZ RSSRUWXnities to look to the future are evolving and are being supported by the Chiles Group. Emerging initiatives like All Clams on Deck are looking at innovative ways to use live clams to help restore sea grass to not only help feed diminishing manatee populations but also to help minimize the impacts of algal blooms like red tide.

Today, many visitors and residents arrive by boat just as they did in the early days. The 0DU 9LVWD KDV VOLSV DQG FDQ EH UHDFKHG DW *36 &RRUGLQDWHV 1 : MXVW VRXWK RI /RQJERDW 3DVV DQG ZHVW RI -HZ¿VK .H\ ,&: 0HQX DQG KRXUV FDQ EH IRXQG DW MarVistaDining.com. Situated under the buttonwood trees, the sweeping bay views and gently lapping water remind us that the path to the future is clearly shaped by the past.

Content provided by: The Chiles Group

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FEBRUARY 2, 2022

Work continues to locate, fix Piney Point leaks A new device may help workers find and fix leaks in a gypsum stack at Piney Point.

BY CINDY LANE SUN STAFF WRITER | clane@amisun.com

PALMETTO – Workers continue to search for leaks identified last month in a gypsum stack storing contaminated water at the former phosphate plant at Piney Point.

Contractors deployed a device last week designed to remove mud and silt, clearing the water so workers can find and repair the leaks more easily, according to a Florida Department of Environmental Protection report.

Piney Point’s court-appointed receiver also has authorized the use of a new system to maximize water evaporation from the wastewater storage pond in the leaking stack to lower water levels.

FDEP reported on Jan. 5 that three leaks in the stack were seeping less than three gallons of water per minute combined. Scuba divers

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION | SUBMITTED

A device intended to remove mud and silt could allow workers to identify leaks more easily in a Piney Point gypsum stack. and other workers identified the source of one leak using hydrophone surveys, sonar work and dye trace studies.

Leaking water is being pumped back into the storage pond on top of the gyp stack, according to the

TWIN COLD water

agency’s most recent report, which states, “There continues to be no indication of any concern with the integrity or stability of the stack system, and there are no offsite discharges occurring at this time.”

A leak in March 2021 resulted in

FDEP approving the dumping of 215 million gallons of contaminated water into Tampa Bay to prevent flooding of homes and businesses in the event of the stack’s collapse.

The contaminated water discharged in March and April spread throughout Tampa Bay and Sarasota Bay, transporting nitrogen and phosphorus that worsened a bloom of the toxic algae red tide that lasted from April to November, causing fish kills and respiratory irritation.

Since then, about 265 tons of nitrogen and 240 tons of phosphate have been removed from the wastewater ponds as a precaution.

The contaminated water at Piney Point eventually will be injected into a 3,300-foot-deep well now under construction at 3105 Buckeye Road. The FDEP issued a permit in December for Manatee County to build the well despite objections from five environmental groups concerned about the potential for contaminating underground drinking water in the Floridan aquifer.

VALENTINE’S DAY 2022

Lobster Tails

SAYS

with 2 sides 25.99 Add a lobster tail to any entree 12.99

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CORTEZ

6906 14th St. West 941.758.7880

6696 Cortez Road 941.792.0077

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1525 51st Ave East 941.721.7773

Bradenton Beach 941.778.AMOB (2662)

$5 Mimosas and Poinsettias **Alcohol reserved for 21+**

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FEBRUARY 2, 2022

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Food • Live Music • Community Displays • Kids Area • Nautical and Environmental Art

FEB. 19 & 20, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Admission $5

Proceeds benefit F.I.S.H. Preserve

Kids 12 & under FREE

The festival is located at the east end of the Village adjacent to the Florida Maritime Museum on 119th St. W.

Parking: The Boy Scouts will offer on-site parking at the Preserve which is located one block east of the village, off Cortez Road, for a $5 donation. FISH is providing FREE Parking for Motorcycles in the FISH Preserve Parking area.

Bus Service with Off-site Parking: Available at Coquina Beach and GT Bray Park.

Cost is $3.00 for Round Trip Bus Fare ($1.50 each way).

Off Site Parking: Available Saturday only at Cortez Rd. Baptist Church (4411 100th St. W., Bradenton) with Free Shuttle to Festival provided by The Monkey Bus.

For information call 941-301-4000

www.cortez-fish.org

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FEBRUARY 2, 2022

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11

Classic rock icon shares stage with local choir Classic rock came to The Center with Lou Gramm’s Juke Box Hero tour.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Classic rocker Lou Gramm brought the crowd at The Center of Anna Maria Island to its feet with thunderous applause during a stop on his Juke Box Hero tour.

Gramm took to the stage with his band after an acoustic set from local musician Billy Rice, of the Billy Rice Band. Playing all of his solo hits along with a selection of classic rock staples from his time with Foreigner, Gramm brought the crowd to its feet for the majority of his two-hour set.

Gramm and his band kicked things off with the Foreigner classic, “Head Games,” before playing “Double Vision,” “Cold as Ice,” “Feels Like the First Time,” and “Urgent,” among others.

The highlight of the show was when five members of the choir from Roser Memorial Community Church - Andy De Vries, Karen DiCostanzo, Christine George, Donna Pope and Sharon Rowe - joined Gramm and his band onstage to sing Foreigner’s number one smash hit, “I Want to Know What Love Is.” Reflecting on the experience of performing onstage with Gramm and his band, Rowe said, “It was the thrill of a lifetime.”

“I am grateful that I volunteered for this wonderful event. Everyone with the band was cordial and treated us well. Lou was especially nice, and it was a thrill to sing with a Songwriters Hall of Fame legend,” Pope said, in an email to The Sun. “I loved being a rock star for one night!”

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

Left, Billy Rice of The Billy Rice Band plays an acoustic set to warm up the crowd before Lou Gramm takes the stage. Right, Foreigner’s Lou Gramm sings “I Want to Know What Love Is” with members of the choir from Roser Church.

“It was surreal performing with one of the biggest names of our era,” De Vries said. “I didn’t expect such a kind and gracious person. He (Gramm) greeted us personally at rehearsal, helped us settle in and cued us in for our parts. When we sang in the concert, our practice paid off. We had so much fun! As we left the stage, he thanked us individually. We were so grateful for the opportunity. When our kids saw the video, they were really impressed!”

“I know that the word ‘surreal’ is overused but I truly know what it means now, like a dream state,” George said, of performing with Gramm. “It has always been a dream to sing backup, but I got two dreams for the price of one. Lou Gramm from Foreigner! I can die tomorrow feeling fulfilled!”

“It was a once in a lifetime opportu-

5346 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach (941) 778-5788 | hurricanehanks.com

nity,” DiConstanzo said of the performance. “I never thought I would be on stage with such a talented band and someone that popular.” Though she admitted that her knowledge of Gramm before being offered the opportunity to perform with the rock legend was limited, she said her nephew was more than happy to fill her in on Gramm’s musical accomplishments.

Although the group from Roser’s rehearsal time with Gramm and his band was short, she said it was a wonderful experience and that everyone involved in the show was “so welcoming. They couldn’t have been nicer. They were just really great.” Meeting Gramm was a wonderful experience for DiConstanzo.

“I was nervous at first but then when I met him at rehearsal I thought ‘wow.’

He was so friendly and so happy that

we were there,” she said.

When Gramm launched into a rendition of “Juke Box Hero,” the entire crowd came to its feet and didn’t sit down as the show continued with the solo hit, “Midnight Blue,” and ended with a performance of “Hot-Blooded.”

The next show coming to The Center’s stage as a part of the Bradenton Gulf Island Concert Series is Don Felder, former lead guitarist for The Eagles, on Sunday, Feb. 20. Tickets are on sale now at www.centerami.org/ events.

The concert series is brought to the Island’s stage by Bradenton Area Arts & Culture, Cedar Cove Resort & Cottages and The Sandbar. Proceeds from the shows at The Center go to benefit the nonprofit, supporting community programs on Anna Maria Island.

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Historical Society expands scholarship eligibility The Anna Maria Island Historical Society has changed the eligibility requirements for its annual scholarship award.

According to museum representative, Valerie Wilson, the historical society will no longer limit scholarship applicants to high school seniors only. “The Anna Maria Island Historical Society will award a scholarship to an Island resident who is a graduating high school senior who plans to continue his or her education, or to a person who is a current enrollee in a community college, college, university, trade or vocational school,” Wilson stated in her press release. Applications are available at the local high school guidance offices or the AMI Historical Museum at 402 Pine Ave. in Anna Maria. For more information call 941-778-0492.

JOE HENDRICKS | SUN

Terry Gebhardt, Lee Zerkel and Shawn Mayers were welcomed to the Scenic WAVES Committee by members Ingrid McClellan and Peg Miller.

Scenic WAVES members appointed

‛S YOUR COMFORT ZONE? WHERE

Terry Gebhardt, Lee Zerkel and Shawn Mayers are the newest members of Bradenton Beach’s Scenic WAVES Committee. Gebhardt and Zerkel are Bradenton Beach residents. Mayers is a Holmes Beach resident and a member of the Anna Maria Island Garden Club. The new members were appointed by the city commission on Jan. 20. The proposed appointment of Keep Manatee Beautiful Executive Director Jennifer Hoffman was delayed until Hoffman can attend a city commission meeting in February. The Scenic WAVES Committee serves as an advisory board to the city commission and provides insight and suggestions on landscaping and beautification improvements along the portion of Gulf Drive/SR 789 in Bradenton Beach that’s designated by the state as a scenic highway. The committee also provides insight on additional landscaping and beautification efforts throughout the city.

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City honors Deputy Steve Stewart Deputy Steve Stewart is now assigned to the Manatee County Judicial Center in downtown Bradenton.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT | jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Manatee County Sheriff’s Deputy Steve Stewart was honored with a somewhat tongue-incheek proclamation for the 15 years he served as a member of the city of Anna Maria’s contracted law enforcement agency.

During the Thursday, Jan. 27 city commission meeting, Mayor Dan Murphy read the proclamation aloud.

He noted Stewart was assigned to the county’s Anna Maria unit in May 2006 and left the city’s service in October 2021.

“During those 15 years, Deputy Stewart has served us diligently in the line of duty and faithfully protected our homes, our businesses, our families and even our pets. Some locations within our city which he has vigilantly guarded will now be less safe as a result of his absence – specifically the

During those 15 years, Deputy Stewart has served us diligently in the line of duty and faithfully protected our homes, our businesses, our families and even our pets.”

Dan Murphy, Anna Maria Mayor Rod & Reel Pier, as well as Ginny’s and Jane E’s Café. Steve was known by the city staff as a renowned gourmet cook and our staff will miss the aroma of burnt garlic and sauteed meatballs which he left lingering in the hallways and the chamber of city hall. As a result of his friendly smile, his willingness to help and his compassion for our city, Steve has been revered and respected by our citizens, our visitors and even our pets. So now, we the city of Anna Maria, hereby proclaim Jan. 27, 2022, as Deputy Steve Stewart Day,” Murphy proclaimed.

On behalf of the many deputies and supervisors Stewart served with during his time in Anna Maria, Deputy Patrick

Manning presented him with a framed photograph of the Rod & Reel Pier.

“In a 12-hour shift, we all know there were about four and a half hours that you spent there,” Manning joked.

Manning also presented Stewart with an aerial photo of Bean Point that was signed by the mayor and many of the deputies Stewart served with.

On a more serious note, Manning said the number of visitors who come to Anna Maria each month continues to rise, but because of deputies like Stewart the level of crime in the city has remained the same or been reduced.

Stewart then joked about the locks being changed now that he has a key to the city.

CITY OF ANNA MARIA | SUBMITTED

Deputy Steve Stewart received a signed photograph of Bean Point from Deputy Patrick Manning.

Regarding his new assignment at the county courthouse, Stewart jokingly said, “You can visit me there or I can subpoena you. Thank you very much, everyone.”

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FEBRUARY 2, 2022

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FEBRUARY 2, 2022

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OUTDOORS

FEBRUARY 2, 2022

Dangerous seagrass bill advances Reel Time RUSTY CHINNIS

F

lorida Senate Bill 198 (Sen. A. Rodriguez, R-Doral) would allow permits that will impact seagrass and allow for replacing them elsewhere in state waters. Why is that a problem?

I posed that question to Dave Tomasko, the executive director of the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program.

Tomasko has more than 30 years of experience in water quality assessments and the development of science-based natural resource plans in the Gulf of Mexico and internationally. With a Ph.D. in biology from the University of South Florida, a Master of Science in marine biology from the Florida Institute of Technology, and a Bachelor of Science in biology from Old Dominion University, Tomasko is uniquely qualified to accurately assess these kinds of proposals.

“The biggest issue is that the track record of transplanting seagrasses is poor,” Tomasko said. “Even if transplant areas gain some seagrass after planting, those that survive typically have lower densities than what they replaced. Typically, seagrass grows where it can, and for someone to grow new seagrass, something has to change - water quality must improve (very hard) or areas have to be made shallow enough to support seagrass (expensive) or wave attenuation de-

FILE PHOTO

Seagrass flats in the Intracoastal Waterway/Sarasota Bay off Anna Maria Island could be impacted by proposed state legislation. vices have to be installed (also expensive and a nuisance to navigation).

Many believe we can’t afford more losses, and so a system that makes it seem ‘acceptable’ for impacts because they can be ‘mitigated’ is not thought to be supportable by the facts or track record of such efforts. Seagrass restoration efforts in Florida have had a history of being both expensive and complex, with few success stories.”

The bill would expand the destruction of seagrass permittable in Florida with mitigation banks. The bill might also open the door to allow healthy, undisturbed seagrass areas to be impacted by the construction of boat basins and navigation channels that the Florida Department of

Environmental Protection (FDEP) has routinely denied for more than 30 years. There are many other mitigating factors. Considering the massive losses of seagrass in Tampa Bay and Sarasota Bay, as well as statewide, and the unprecedented death of manatees in the Indian River Lagoon, this bill seems almost laughable to this author. Besides holding the potential of being a virtual death sentence for manatees, advancing legislation like this is unwise. To advocate planting seagrass without fixing the underlying impaired water affecting seagrasses statewide seems absurd.

Despite all these issues, coupled with the apprehensions of environmentalists, the bill was approved by

the Environment and Natural Resources Committee by a vote of 3 to 2 on Jan. 18. A house companion bill, HB 349, filed by Rep. Sirois (R-Merritt Island), passed its first committee of reference on Dec. 6, 2021, and is now headed to the Agriculture and Natural Resources Subcommittee.

I had a firsthand experience recently that drove home the potential harm of legislation like this on a trip to the east coast when my friend and fellow conservationist Captain Rodney Smith, of Satellite, took me to a popular manatee viewing area at DeSoto Park in Satellite Beach.

The sight of hundreds of manatees grouped together in a shallow canal was mesmerizing. When I expressed my delight at seeing so many manatees at one time, nearby environmental filmmaker Dylan Hansen informed me that just a few years ago there were twice as many manatees there.

Suddenly the plight of these manatees came into sharp focus.

Citizens who care about water quality both as a quality of life issue and from an economic perspective must speak out. The best way to do that is to contact your state Senator and your state Representative and encourage them to vote “no” on these potentially disastrous bills. It might have been argued at one time that we need to strike a balance on issues like this, but that time has passed. We’ve kicked the can down the road until we’ve run out of road. Either we take the initiative or we suffer the consequences that inaction may bring.

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Fish skinny water in February CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT

Trout and redfish should be good shallow-water options this month.

You may also find trout along with blues, Spanish mackerel, pompano and flounder on deep grass flats.

Look for sheepshead, flounder, reds and more around docks. Catch and release night snook fishing around lighted docks in the ICW may be a good option if it’s not too cold.

Spanish and king mackerel and cobia may show up in the coastal Gulf by the end of the month.

Snook and reds remain closed to harvest south of State Road 64 in Manatee County on the west coast of Florida and south to the south bank of Gordon Pass in Collier County. Reds and snook are catch and release only in that zone until May 31. Spotted seatrout has reopened in that zone with a three-fish per person bag limit and a six-fish boat limit. Trout must be from 15” to 19” with one allowed per vessel over 19”. Full regulations and details can be viewed at https://myfwc.com/.

Since snook are temperature sensitive, I won’t target them following strong fronts when water temperatures dip below 60 degrees. However, I have had some great night trips catching and releasing snook on flies in the ICW this time of year.

Since larger baitfish aren’t that plentiful this time of year, snook will gorge themselves on glass minnows and shrimp. Small white flies, like my Grassett Snook Minnow, DOA Shrimp (3” or the newer 2-3/4”), DOA Tiny TerrorEyz or CAL Jigs with shad tails and jerk worms, will all work well.

CAPTAIN RICK GRASSETT | SUBMITTED

Jack McCulloch, from Lakewood Ranch, fished Gasparilla Sound in a previous February with Capt. Rick Grassett to catch and release this red on a CAL jig with a shad tail.

You may also find snook in rivers, creeks or canals this month. Fishing may be good in these areas on a blustery day when it isn’t fit to fish anywhere else. I like wider profile flies and lures in these areas due to the baitfish that may be found there. Fly anglers should score with wide profile baitfish patterns, such as Lefty’s Deceiver, fished on a sink tip fly line. Spin anglers should do well with CAL jigs and 4” swim baits and jerk worms, DOA Baitbusters or suspending plugs. Fish the deep spots, usually on outside bends, for the best action.

You might find reds in potholes or along the edges of bars and shallow flats when the tide is low.

As the tide rises, they will feed higher on shallow flats, particu-

larly on sunny afternoons. I like 1/16-ounce CAL jigs with shad tails or jerk worms for reds in shallow water. If it is too shallow or grassy to fish an exposed hook, a Mustad or Owner weedless hook will allow you to fish plastic baits in these areas. Fly anglers should score with lightly weighted flies, like Clousers or my Grassett Flats Minnow, with weed guards on floating lines with 10’-12’ leaders. You may also find big trout in skinny water in the same places you find reds. The same lures, flies and techniques that you use to target reds will work for big trout in those areas. I release all overslot trout since they are usually females and are important to the health of our trout fishery.

COCONUTS: Fines levied for owners FROM PAGE 4

Connolly denied Najmy’s motion for continuance and found that the property violated city codes, assessing a $500 per day fine from Dec. 18-Jan. 19, a $16,500 total fine.

The case of an alleged repeat violation at unit 118/202C at The Coconuts was a little more complicated. The unit is owned by 100 73rd Street 202C LLC. The renters that code compliance officers spoke to rented the unit for a seven-day/six-night rental, which Najmy said he believes complies with city codes.

Connolly required an interpretation from City Planner Bill Brisson on city codes. Brisson said the code would require a seven-night

stay, not seven days, leaving it as a violation for the property to be rented for six nights/seven days.

Najmy argued that the paperwork provided by code compliance officers specified seven days and that his client had attempted to come into compliance and believed they were within the sevenday stays booked at the unit.

Brisson said the code had been interpreted as seven 24-hour periods, technically eight days, since 2007. Najmy said he wouldn’t argue about the interpretation of the code but would like clear direction from the city’s representatives on what rental terms would be compliant so that his clients could make sure they comply with the VRC’s requirements going forward.

Speaking on behalf of the city, attorney Erica Augello said that looking on the rental agency’s website, AMI Locals, the unit was listed as available for a two-night minimum stay, well below the seven nights required by the VRC, which violates the advertising requirements of the code.

Connolly found the property in violation of the ordinance and assessed a fine of $500 per day from Dec. 22 until the property and its advertising are brought into compliance, a fine that totaled $14,500 on Jan. 19, the day it was assessed by the special magistrate. The fines against the property continue to pile up at $500 per day until it is brought into compliance.

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FEBRUARY 2, 2022

Bali Hai owners hit with hefty code fines The Holmes Beach special magistrate didn’t show mercy when levying fines against the Bali Hai’s ownership for code violations.

BY KRISTIN SWAIN SUN STAFF WRITER | kswain@amisun.com

HOLMES BEACH – The fight between city leaders and the ownership of the Bali Hai Beach Resort is continuing, with the Holmes Beach special magistrate levying fines in excess of $1,000 per day against the beachfront property, topping $176,000 so far with no end in sight.

Special Magistrate Michael Connolly vacated an order imposing fines against the property during a November hearing due to an issue with the proceedings not being recorded at a mid-2021 hearing. At a Jan. 19 code compliance special magistrate hearing, Connolly ruled against the resort in seven separate cases with hefty fines assessed.

In a case alleging change of use on the property - the operation of a bar/lounge without an approved site plan from the city - Connolly ruled in the city’s favor, imposing a $500-per-day fine from Oct. 12, 2021, until the property is brought into compliance by either obtaining an approved site plan, including the bar/lounge as an approved use on the property or demolishing the bar/lounge and returning it to

its previous state. As of Jan. 30, the fines had reached $54,500.

Connolly also assessed $127.24 in administrative costs.

Speaking on behalf of the property’s ownership, which includes local developer Shawn Kaleta, was attorney Louis Najmy. Najmy argued that the bar/lounge wasn’t a change of use, that it had been an existing use on the property, and therefore wouldn’t require a site plan approval.

In late 2021, Najmy took a site plan before the Holmes Beach city commission, requesting that it be approved to include the bar/lounge and the installation of a spa for the use of hotel guests. While commissioners approved a site plan, it didn’t include the bar/lounge requested by Najmy. That site plan approval has since expired due to not being accepted, signed and recorded by the property owners, meaning that the site plan approval process would have to begin again before it could potentially be approved by commissioners.

The conditional site plan approval is being used as an example of the city’s alleged “blackballing” against Kaleta and his business dealings in the city in his ongoing federal lawsuit.

Other code compliance cases heard by Connolly during the Jan. 19 hearing include repeat violations of work done without permits and work done in violation of a stop-work order.

KRISTIN SWAIN | SUN

The issues between city leaders and the ownership of the Bali Hai Beach Resort are continuing to cost the property owner in the form of code compliance violation fines.

In the case of work being done without permits, Najmy said, “The Bali Hai’s hands are tied” by the city because after-the-fact permits for the work on the property cannot be issued until a site plan is approved by commissioners.

Speaking on behalf of the city, attorney Erica Augello said that Najmy was “asking for forgiveness instead of permission” and argued that if his client had gone through the proper channels before doing construction work at the Bali Hai, neither party would be in this place where fines were being assessed.

She also noted that the resort’s ownership had the opportunity to accept an approved site plan from the city and refused.

Connolly assessed fines of $500 per day from June 11, 2021, until the property is brought into compliance, which is $116,500 as of Jan. 30, plus administrative fees of $127.24.

In the repeat violation case of doing construction in violation of a stop-work order, Connolly ruled

that the violation was irreparable because the work has already been completed, assessing a flat $5,000 fine, the maximum allowed under city codes for an irreparable code violation, and $127.24 in administrative fees.

In the case of operating a bar/ lounge and spa without a business tax receipt (BTR) issued by the city, Connolly also found a violation.

Since it wasn’t a repeat violation, Connolly didn’t assess a fine but ordered that the property come into compliance and receive its BTRs for the two uses by Jan. 31 or face future fines. He did assess administrative costs of $127.24.

The issue that Najmy noted with receiving the BTRs from the city is that the property cannot have any outstanding code violations and receive a BTR. Connolly said he wouldn’t hold on fines due to any pending litigation.

“The cost of doing business in Holmes Beach is complying with the law,” Augello said.

“I really just want this to end,”

Najmy said, arguing that the city has placed his client in an impossible situation.

Augello said if the resort’s owners want issues with the city to end, they should comply with city codes and cease operations of the bar/ lounge and spa until they fix the code issues on the property and can receive the BTRs. In three cases concerning electrical, plumbing and A/C work done without a permit, Connolly ruled there was a violation and gave the Bali Hai’s ownership until Jan. 31 to obtain the three required permits or face additional fines at an upcoming code compliance hearing.

He assessed $127.24 in administrative costs in all three cases.

For those keeping score, that’s the city of Holmes Beach at seven with the Bali Hai at zero, though Najmy has more than one court case pending appealing the decisions of the city’s representatives and alleging wrongdoing against Kaleta.

Connolly said that while he did assess fines against the resort and its ownership, he doesn’t believe that continuing to assess fines is going to remedy the issues between the city and the resort.

He encouraged both parties to meet and try to work out a feasible way forward that would remedy the code violations instead of both sides continuing to pursue the matter through hearings.

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BISTRO: New owners take over FROM PAGE 1

the property owner, Beach Bistro Inc. The same filing named attorney Louis Najmy as president, director and secretary, and developer Shawn Kaleta as director and vice-president.

In the newsletter, Murphy said that while he and Timmins have enjoyed raising their family around the Bistro and working with the team at the restaurant, they felt that it was time to step back and hand the reins over to a new team of owners, though the names of the new owners were not disclosed in the email.

“We have a long history, a great tradition, of incredibly talented culinarians.

We feel strongly that the great team running the Bistro now is one of our finest. Which is why we feel it is the right time for us to step aside and to take pleasure in watching this special

little place continue to soar without us.

The Bistro staff will do an excellent job of carrying on the Bistro tradition. The people who made it great will continue to make it great. We won’t be far away,” Murphy said in the email.

Continuing, he stated that the couple plans to focus their efforts on their craft bar, The Doctor’s Office, and its adjacent event space, The Doctor’s Garden, both in Holmes Beach.

Previously, Murphy and Timmins owned Eat Here, a bistro located in The Shoppes at Waterline in Holmes Beach.

However, the bistro was closed, first due to COVID-19 precautions and then due to a gas leak caused by work done in other parts of the shopping center.

After closing for renovations in June 2021, Eat Here never reopened.

On the Beach Bistro website, another restaurant, The Bistro BLVD, is listed to be located in downtown Sarasota at the BLVD condominium complex. However, that restaurant has yet to open.

The Beach Bistro has received recognitions from Zagat, The New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, the James Beard Foundation, Food & Wine and the St. Petersburg Times, among others.

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REAL ESTATE

FEBRUARY 2, 2022

Interest rates suddenly the enemy S

o, we’ve had a good run - actually, a spectacular run - especially for those of us who already own homes. Lowest mortgage interest rates in history, soaring housing prices, quick sales - what could go wrong?

Don’t look over your shoulder, but the mortgage interest rate monster is right behind you, getting bigger and bigger, fed by your friendly Federal Reserve. Mortgage rates are closely tied to the 10-Year U.S. Treasury note, which is influenced by inflation, the job market and a variety of other business-connected phenomena. The Federal Reserve announced at the end of last year that they expected to raise interest rates multiple times during this year and we’re just starting to see the effects of that.

Rates are up and the stock market is down with a lot of nervous investors out there.

During the first week of January, U.S. mortgage rates rose to their highest level since May 2020, according to Freddie Mac. The average rate for a 30-year loan was

Castles in the Sand LOUISE BOLGER 3.22% this week, up from 3.11% the previous week, and you can anticipate further increases. A year ago, the mortgage rates were 2.65%. Naturally, this increases the costs associated with buying a home at a time when home sale prices are near record levels. In spite of this, there is still strong buyer demand for homes and very low inventory rates.

However, there will be a negative impact on some buyers who will start to have problems qualifying for a mortgage at higher rates. For example, a 3.22% rate on a $300,000 loan would be a monthly payment of $1,300, excluding taxes and insurance. At last year’s rate of 2.65%,

the monthly payment would be $1,209, excluding taxes and insurance. It’s not big, but enough to cause a problem for a marginal buyer and especially first-time buyers who would have to come up with more cash down so the amount of the loan could be reduced in order to qualify.

Just to give you a little perspective of how historically low the mortgage rates were last year, I checked on Freddie Mac’s website, which has a full analysis of interest rates starting in 1971 when the average rate was 7.31%. The highest rate was in 1981 where the average for the year was a shocking 16.63%. Hard to believe even for those of us who actually remember but especially for young first-time buyers now who are shocked at the relatively small recent increase. The lowest rate was, of course in 2021, which was an average of 2.96%.

The years between 1979 and 1990 all had double-digit interest rates. By the time I had a real estate license, the rates were

over 10%, but by then, everyone just assumed it was the new normal. From 1991 to now, the rates never hit double-digit again and went progressively down pretty much every year right through to 2021.

My advice is not to get rattled. It would be foolish to assume that rates going up are going to totally crash the real estate market and to also assume that homeowners aren’t going to sell because they have to pay a higher rate for a new mortgage. Yes, some homeowners will use that as an excuse not to move or determine they can’t afford the increase, but for the most part, everyone will get accustomed to the increase. Even a full point over last year’s low would bring the rate to about 4%, which puts us where we were less than 5 years ago when homes were selling for a lot less.

Hang on, there has been nothing during the last two years that has been easy, but the interest rate monster may not be as scary as we think.

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Island Charms celebrating fifth anniversary Island Charms carries the CFJ jewelry line created by owner Lauren Collins.

the-artists event featuring local painter Sandy VanZant and local jewelry artist Debbie Pigman.

The weekly anniversary celebrations will conclude on Thursday, Feb. 24, again from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a trunk show featuring items from the renowned Frieda Rothman line of jewelry and accessories.

BY JOE HENDRICKS SUN CORRESPONDENT |t jhendricks@amisun.com

ANNA MARIA – Island Charms is celebrating its five-year anniversary in February.

Located at 218-C Pine Ave., Island Charms is owned by Lauren Collins, who is assisted in her business operations by her husband, Jim, and their children Meghan, Claire and Patrick.

Island Charms opened in February 2017 at a different Pine Avenue location.

“We consider ourselves a jewelry boutique,” Collins said. “We have fashion jewelry, handmade jewelry and fine jewelry. We also sell local art and home décor, as well as glassware. This past year we moved to a bigger location on Pine Avenue, next to Pink & Navy, and we expanded our inventory. That has been a really good move for us.”

“We started out with less jewelry and more home décor, but we’ve really blossomed into a jewelry store,” she added.

“That’s really where my passion is. In the past year, I launched my own CFJ (Collins

APPRECIATIVE OWNER

LAUREN COLLINS | SUBMITTED

Lauren Collins has owned and operated Island Charms for five years.

Fine Jewelry) jewelry brand. It’s an ethical and sustainable line of fine jewelry made with recycled gold and lab-grown diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds are created the same way Mother Nature creates them, but it’s done in a lab so there’s no mining involved. I design them and they are manufactured for me in New York City.”

ANNIVERSARY EVENTS

To celebrate Island Charms’ five-year anniversary, a special event is scheduled at the

store each Thursday in February.

The weekly celebrations will begin on Thursday, Feb. 3 from noon until 5 p.m., a “Bites and Bubbly” event that will include free light bites and Prosecco wine and highlight the store’s wide variety of offerings.

On Thursday, Feb. 10 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Island Charms will host a trunk show featuring, for one day only, the selected works of local jewelry artist Sally Rocks.

On Thursday, Feb. 17 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Island Charms will host a meet-

Depending on the season, Island Charms has two to four employees.

“My first employee, Janette Tast, helped me set up the store and she’s been with me all five years,” Collins said.

Collins explained why she chose Anna Maria and Pine Avenue as the location for her business.

“My family lives on Pine Avenue. We’ve lived here for almost seven years,” she said.

“We wanted to start a business here and the opportunity presented itself. I learned on the job because I had never owned a business before.

“We’re so appreciative to be here in this community. I love that it still has that smalltown feel. We’ve got some wonderful local customers and we get a lot of the same visitors every year. We appreciate them and we SEE ISLAND CHARMS, PAGE 25

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FEBRUARY 2, 2022

CITIZENS: Voyles, Murphy honored as Citizens of the Year FROM PAGE 1

Christine Aaron for the work they do with their AMI Pup Rescue organization.

Selection committee members Kathy Patten and Marsha McAllister presented this year’s awards.

After noting there are many “unsung heroes” in the community and many in the commission chambers that evening, Patten said, “We’ve got two people who will no longer be unsung heroes because we’re going to sing their praises.”

When presenting Voyles’ award, McAllister said, “She’s the first person my husband and I met when we moved to the Island. I’ve known her for about four years now. She has accomplished so much in the arts community and she’s been so generally communityminded and caring and generous with her time and her talents.”

“She’s a leader in her community,” Patten added.

McAllister noted Voyles is a former president of the Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island, president of the Manatee County Arts Council and founder and past president of the inactive Islandbased Cultural Connections organization that hosted annual artsHOP events.

“It’s amazing that she found time to paint 50 watercolor images, and so many of the Island,” McAllister said.

She noted Voyles’ “iconic paintings” hang in several homes on Anna Maria Island and around the globe, with subjects that include the Rod & Reel Pier, the City Pier, The Island Players theater and other Island landmarks and landscapes.

When accepting her award, Voyles

I’m privileged to live in a wonderful community and work with so many people.”

Joan Voyles, Distinguished Citizens of the Year

It’s a tremendous honor. I enjoy all my involvement with the Chamber, the Garden Club and the Historical Society.”

Barbara Murphy, Distinguished Citizen of the Year

said, “It’s a beautiful plaque. Thank you very much. I’m privileged to live in a wonderful community and work with so many people. When you’re a volunteer in the community it’s a good way to get to know people. We have such wonderful assets here; the theater, the Historical Society, the orchestra and chorus. We have the galleries. We just have a lot to make this a special place in addition to our beach and all those good things we have. I’m very pleased to have lived here. I’m a lucky person.”

After Voyles received a warm round of applause, Carter said, “We’re honored to have you as an active member of our community.”

“Your art even graces my office,” Mayor Dan Murphy added.

Before recognizing Barbara Murphy,

Patten said, “This is a great community, because we didn’t have to work too hard to come up with two wonderful people.”

Patten then said, “It’s an honor to introduce our fabulous first lady. She’s well known for her commitment to our city in so many ways. Barb serves as vice president of the Anna Maria Historical Society and she visits the museum to chat with the docents and check that all is well. May through November, when most of the board members are away, she is the overseer and the operating manager of the museum. She’s always looking for innovative ways to improve the museum and historical park. She’s also the driving force behind the AMI Historical Society

being nominated and winning the AMI Chamber of Commerce non-profit of the year award in 2021.

“She’s a teacher of CCD at St. Bernard Church, an active member of the church and she’s an avid member of the Garden Club. She’s an integral part of the Chamber. Barb has made a big difference on our Island and the city of Anna Maria. She exemplifies positivity everywhere she goes, and her willingness to help others and her dedication to our community all add up to why she should be selected as Distinguished Citizen of the Year,” Patten said.

After receiving her plaque and a round of applause, Murphy said, “Thank you so much. It’s a tremendous honor. I enjoy all my involvement with the Chamber, the Garden Club and the Historical Society.”

Murphy noted Patten previously served as a mayoral first lady in New Jersey, and when Dan Murphy was first elected mayor, she sought advice from Patten on being a mayor’s wife and a city’s first lady.

“There’s times when you can be vocal and express your opinion, but there’s times when you have to zip it up,” Murphy said regarding her role as first lady.

“I don’t feel deserving of this award.

There’s so many others in our community that work so hard and do so much.

I thank you,” Murphy said in closing.

“Two gems of our community. Thank you both and congratulations,” Carter said.

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 2, 2022

BEACH BEAT BRADENTON BEACH

1/23, 9:28 p.m., noise complaint, 2207 Ave. C. An officer was dispatched to a noise complaint. Upon arrival, the officer heard people talking and loud music coming from the pool area that was in violation of the city noise ordinance. The renter agreed to keep the noise at acceptable levels and was told any further complaints would result in action being taken by police.

HOLMES BEACH

1/19, 10:53 p.m., aggravated battery. The officer was dispatched to a domestic battery after the victim called police to report his mother coming home most likely under the influence of narcotics.

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The victim stated the mother and her boyfriend came to the house to get her cell phone, at which time she lost her temper, screaming at her son about living in the residence. The victim said his mother then began to strike him and finally picked up a wooden board and struck him in the face with it.

The victim shot video of the incident, which police say clearly shows the mother acting exactly as described.

Efforts to locate the suspect were not successful, but she has been charged with aggravated battery.

1/21, 10:29 a.m., petit theft, 3900 East Bay Drive. Witnesses observed a man pushing a shopping cart filled with groceries out of Publix without paying. He was then seen loading the groceries into the bed of a silver truck.

He then left the parking lot headed to an unknown location. The witness got

25

a plate number, and there is security footage of the incident, but no arrest has been made at this time.

1/22, 2:18 p.m., theft, 5325 Marina Drive.

The officer was dispatched to the Waterline Resort concerning a theft from room 421. The clerk said the occupants of the room were supposed to check out at 11 a.m. but they were never heard from. Housekeeping entered the room and found it to be a mess, and two large TVs were missing from the walls. A search of the room found multiple receipts and other items that shows the possibility the room was rented fraudulently with someone else’s credit card. Police gathered information such as serial numbers from the TVs and credit card receipts. No further action has been taken at this time.

ISLAND CHARMS: Celebrating fifth anniversary FROM PAGE 23

want to maintain those relationships for many more years. We would not be in business without a wonderful staff, our local artists who help to make our store unique and a loyal customer base. For that we are thankful every day,” Collins said.

Like many businesses, Island

Charms had to navigate the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s been challenging. We closed for a while and things were slow for the second half of 2020, but we survived and 2021 was much better, with retail having a nice turnaround. We’re thankful for that and we’re hoping

2022 will be good and people won’t be skeptical about traveling again,” Collins said.

Island Charms is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday.

Many of Island Charm’s jewelry offerings can also be purchased online at www.IslandCharmsAMI.com.

Visit or call us for a private consultation PremierSothebysRealty.com L I ST W I T H U STO DAY.C O M

A time-honored brand. An elevated experience.

Nothing Compares.

ANNA MARIA

ANNA MARIA

845 North Shore Drive $7,450,000 Shellie Young 941.713.5458

821 South Bay Boulevard $2,350,000 Laurie Mock & Jenna DellaTorre

941.232.3665

BRADENTON BEACH 601 Gulf Drive North #105 $629,900 Paul DeSantis 813.439.4816

Vi ew a l l ava i l a b l e l i st i n g s

ANNA MARIA ISLAND

825 North Shore Drive Cindy Pierro

$9,500,000 941.920.6818

Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.

Protect Your Home and Everything that Matters 888.870.7667

SARASOTA - DOWNTOWN | 941.364.4000 VENICE | 941.412.3323

LAKEWOOD RANCH | 941.907.9541 LONGBOAT KEY | 941.383.1526 RENTALS | 941.203.3433

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THE SUN

Ease your worries through meditation Rev. Dirk Rodgers is inviting everyone to come to Roser Chapel for an eightweek meditation experience designed to help break negative thought patterns, freeing you from fear, doubt and despair. The classes take place every Wednesday from Jan. 26-March 23 at

9 a.m. in the Chapel, 512 Pine Ave. in Anna Maria. Each week will feature a different theme, beginning with Discovering Another Way and ending with Freedom from Despair. For more information, visit www.roserchurch.com.

Perico Bay Club—As Good As It Gets!!

Business As Usual…..Just A Li le Differently.

If you’re looking to buy or sell in Perico Bay Club, or know someone who is, please give me a call!

Give me a call today if you yo ou u’re ’ree lookin looking ngg to Buyy or Sell on Anna Maria Maria Island Mari Islaand or the surrounding ounding ngg aarea! rea eaaa!!

Lynn Zemmer 941 4141 1-730 3030 0-1294 9 94

941.209.1542 I Lynn@Edgewaterami.com 941.730.1294 | Lynn@Edgewaterami.com www.EdgewaterRealEstateInc.com www.EdgewaterRealEstateInc.com 106 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217

FEBRUARY 2, 2022

Available www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 2, 2022

OBITUARIES Ronald Ray Cook

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Ronald Ray Cook, 88, went to be with his Lord Tuesday, Dec. 7, 2021.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Johanne Cook; parents Fred and Alice Cook; brothers Harold (Carol) Cook and Donald Cook; and great-granddaughter, Esther Hope Pierson.

Ron will be lovingly remembered by his wife of seven years, Dorothy H. Cook; sister-in-law, Donna Cook; and children Fred (Kathy Van Zytveld) Cook, Brad (Jeanne Oosterbaan) Cook, Lee (Mary Goffe) Cook and Jean Alice (Jon) Van Den Beldt. He will also be lovingly remembered by his grandchildren Leanne (Scott) Gurley, Ron (Erin) Cook, Emily (Preston) Pierson, Sam Cook, Alex Cook, Brian Cook, and Liz Cook; great-grandchildren Stewart Gurley, Fred Henry Gurley, Greyson

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Cook, Charlie Cook, Sawyer Cook, ful partner during the final chapter Bennett Cook, Evelyn Pierson, and of his life.

Olivia Pierson; many nieces and Ron was a man of faith. He nephews; Dottie’s sons, Lawrence found comfort in the idea of pre(Susan) Hall, Douglas (Jane) Hall, destination and believed that the Bruce (Shelley) Hall; and Dottie’s blessings he enjoyed and the hardgrandchildren. ships he endured were all part of Ron was born in 1933 alongside God’s plan. Ron loved fishing on his identical twin and best friend, Barlow Lake and off the coast of Don, and he graduated as a threeAnna Maria Island, Florida, and sport athlete from Wyoming Park hunting at Cook’s Camp in the U.P. High School, where he met his He enjoyed spending his winters wife, Jo. He worked for the familyTORNADO in Florida as a resident of Anna MARINE GRADE block business, carrying the bricks Maria.

S316 STAINLESS STEEL He made many friendships that built the building which later throughout his life with his charmbecame Cook Funeral Home in ing, outgoing personality. Ron was Grandville, Mich. After the death of loved dearly, and while he will be his father at a young age, Ron knew missed, his memory will live on he wanted to serve grieving families through his family, friends, and all with compassion and empathy. the lives he touched.

Ron and Jo opened Cook Funeral Funeral services were held Home in 1957, after his graduation Tuesday, Dec. 14 at First Reformed from Grand Rapids Junior CollegeOR SEEChurch of Grandville (3060 Wilson OUR and Wayne State University, his RAINDANCE St. SW, Grandville, Mich., 49418), Direct Water Contact service in the U.S. Army, and the with Rev. Matt Cook officiat30 Year Warranty birth of his oldest son, Fred. The ing. Interment was at Grandville funeral home expanded under the Cemetery. leadership of Ronand and his sons, Ron, contribuFor honor Over 39 of Years Locally Owned Operated · Fan Experts In 45 Stores and in 1989, RonNationwide opened Byron tions may be made to the First Center Manor to provide a home Reformed Church of GrandvilleDC Fan Reduce Yo for seniors. Ron was a devoted Scholarship Fund or the AlA/C Bill husband, caring for Jo during zheimer’s Association. The family her long battle with Alzheimer’s welcomes memories and mesdisease. After her passing, Ron re- sages in the online guestbook at married, and Dottie was a wonder- cookcaresgrandville.com.

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THE SUN

SPORTS

FEBRUARY 2, 2022

Football, soccer keeping it exciting

BY MONICA SIMPSON SPECIAL TO THE SUN

ANNA MARIA - The chilled rain kept the kids from the gridiron last week, but the adults kept the action going with adult co-ed flag football action, as well as the kickoff of the indoor soccer season.

Six teams took to the hardcourt of The Center’s gym floor for another season of indoor soccer. The fast-paced, action-packed game kept players and spectators on their toes as the ball ricocheted off of walls, players and goalposts.

In the first game of play, team Sato Real Estate once again made their mark in soccer, but this time sheltered from the elements. With a different roster, the Sato team won their first game of the season against Mi-Box by three goals.

The offense for both teams kept the goalkeepers busy. Josh Sato and Kris Yavalar are credited with 22 and three saves, respectively, for the Sato Real Estate squad. Experience goalie Steve Oelfke had 23 stops in the game, keeping his team within range for the win, but it just was not enough.

In the final game of the night, Slim’s Place’s Greg Moss had six goals in the loss against Gulfview Windows & Doors, making him the top scorer in the league after week one. Spreading out the scoring for the win, Gulfview’s Luca Vecchio topped his team's charts with four goals. Raul Loera, Keith Mahoney and Daniel Aden had two points each, while Chris Culhane had a solo goal to make the final score 11-8.

Solid Rock Construction beat out season rival Moss Builders in adult

flag football this week to put the team at the top of the ranks as the only undefeated team in the league. Moss Builders went into week three tied with Solid Rock, but a pick-six by Christian Hampton, along with interceptions by Hampton and Anthony Mannino, gave them the momentum they needed to walk off the field with the W. Ryan Moss is credited with a rushing TD for team Moss Builders. Solid Rock Construction’s only offensive touchdown was scored by Octavious Cole, who had five catches in the game.

Team TBT earned their second win of the season against Sandbar. Nick Cinelli’s interception for a score, paired with extra point-scoring by Javier Rivera and Joshua Overton helped with the team victory. Rivera also had three QB sacks in the game, keeping the Sandbar quarterback and offensive squad scrambling for position.

Prosper Bradenton made it look easy against Shady Lady with Jon Moss leading his team with three passing touchdowns. Hitting the hot hands of Greg Moss and Karri Stephens for three TDs, J. Moss and the entire Prosper Bradenton managed to keep their opponent out of the endzone for most of the game.

Stephens added an additional six points to the scoreboard with a rushing touchdown to help give his team the 24-6 victory.

Shady Lady’s six points came when Jonathon Soultatos connected with Jasmine Muldoon. Muldoon had four catches in the game and an interception. Also with a pick was G. Moss for Prosper Bradenton.

In the final game of the week, Cortez Deep Sea Fishing won their first game

of the season against WTBL by six points. Sir Williams, in the QB slot, threw for two touchdowns to Luis Campos and Shepard Condon.

Tuna McCracken took the football to the endzone with a rushing TD, giving Cortez Deep Sea Fishing 18 total points in the game.

WTBL’s Jaret Rojas threw for two scores, putting the ball in the hands of Brandon Kull and Dominick Otteni for 12 points in the close ball game.

Going into week four of adult flag football play, it is still anyone’s season.

Teams are starting to scramble for their position in the playoffs, as the action continues to heat up on The Center’s field.

SUN SCOREBOARD TUESDAY, JAN. 25 YOUTH FLAG FOOTBALL – WEEK 3

Games canceled due to weather

THURSDAY, JAN. 27 ADULT CO-ED FLAG FOOTBALL – WEEK 3 Sandbar (1-2-0) TBT (2-0-1)

20 22

Prosper Bradenton (2-1-0) Shady Lady (1-2-0)

24 6

Moss Builders (2-1-0) Solid Rock Construction (3-0-0)

9 18

Cortez Deep Sea Fishing (1-2-0) WTBL (1-1-1)

18 12

ADULT CO-ED INDOOR SOCCER – WEEK 1 Sato Real Estate (1-0-0) Mi-Box (0-1-0)

Beach Bums (1-0-0) Win by forfeit Progressive Cabinetry (0-1-0) Gulfview Windows & Doors (1-0-0) 11 Slim’s Place (0-1-0) 8

Key Royale hosts match The second annual Ladies Member-Member Event held Wednesday, Jan. 26 drew 33 players to the course at Key Royale. Despite the chilly morning, the golfers came out ready to enjoy a morning of golf.

In the blue flight, there was a three-way tie with scorecard playoff resulting in Jenny Huibers and Ann Hackinson taking first place and Laura Purcell and Jackie Gorski taking second place, both with a net score of 26.5.

In the yellow flight, a scorecard

8 5

playoff resulted in Sue Ford and Pam Lowry securing first place at a net score of 27, while Roxanne Koche and Connie Livanos took second place with a net score of 27.

In the purple flight, Annette Hall and Billy Jean Pinson took first place with a net score of 27, while Debbie DuVernay and Peggy Cummings took second place with a net score of 29.

Lisa Edmonds won the longest putt on hole #3 and Pam Lowry won the closest to the hole on #8.

FEBRUARY 2, 2022

FUN IN THE SUN

Across 1 LBJ's vice president 4 Sponsor's tube spot 8 Dracula stabber 13 Tic-tac-toe winner 14 Glow 15 One-on-one teacher 16 Fifth scale note 17 *A total failure "goes over like" one 19 Arena overhead view provider 21 Cowpoke's "okay" 22 Tattoo artist's array 23 Stares openmouthed 25 Violent storm 27 Eaten away by rust, say 30 More, in Mexico 31 Once more 32 Weather guy Al 34 __ and cheese 37 Smooth-tongued 38 Bird-related ... four of Answers to 01-26-22 Crossword Puzzle.

them have landed at the ends of the answers to starred clues 39 April 1 "honoree" 40 Slim fish often smoked 41 Itty-bitty 42 Joltless java brand 43 Tips container 44 Leather bookbinding material 46 Type of pub named for its unglamorous appearance 50 Blind pieces 51 Greek goddess of discord 52 Greek T 54 Financial word before year or policy 57 *Hotel chain with a geographical name 60 Beer named for Washington's capital, briefly

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61 Prefix with national 62 Covers with asphalt 63 Was victorious 64 Wet-eyed 65 Roe source 66 __ Luthor, Superman nemesis Down 1 Bulky "Bonanza" brother 2 "Peter Pan" captain 3 *Last Supper cup 4 Focused on a subject, as a crossword 5 By way of 6 Artist Warhol 7 First appearance 8 Cards, in box scores 9 "Tiptoe Through the __" 10 Make things right 11 Goofballs 12 Dadaist Max 14 Apply carelessly 18 Theoretical missing links 20 West Indies native 24 Dish up, as a dish 26 St. Patrick's mo.

27 Zoo enclosure 28 Look at creepily 29 Washing, as the dishes 33 Bout-ending blows 34 *Monastic hood 35 Golfer Isao 36 Scottish family 38 Fizz up, as water

39 Protests by not eating 41 Saloon bill 42 Oil leak blemishes 43 Court clown 45 Director Hitchcock

46 Kind of bank card 47 Goodnight woman of song 48 Panoramic view 49 Carpenter's files 53 Home of the Jazz

55 Natural burn balm 56 Bobcat, e.g.

58 Dryly humorous 59 Little __, singer of the #1 hit "The LocoMotion"

29

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THE SUN

CLASSIFIED

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BEACH YOGA ON Wednesdays, Saturdays & Sundays at 8:30am at the end of Pine Ave by the Sandbar Restaurant by donation. www.thriveyogafit.com

ROSER CHURCH IS SEARCHING for a full-time Community Engagement Coordinator to join our ministry staff. Visit the 'Staff & Leadership' page on roserchurch.com for more information.

THE BEST VOLUNTEER position on the island. The AMI Historical Museum needs docents and bread makers. Call Kathy Primeau at 989-560-6381.

TIMBER CREEK GOLF COURSE challenging scenic Par 3. PT pro shop/cashier position. Golf privileges included. Call Ray 941-7254715

ROSER FOOD BANK needs donations of cash and non-perishable food, PAPER & PERSONAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS. Donations boxes are located at the Church, Moose Club, and Walgreen’s.

AUTOMOTIVE FOR SALE 2001 LEXUS LX 470. Large SUV white/beige, 130,000 miles. One Owner CARFAX $14,990 OBO marketreps@aol.com

COMMERCIAL SALES, RENT & LEASE HAVE YOU BEEN thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! Duplexes, multi family, small resorts?

Call BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216

CLEANING SERVICE THC CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Rentals, VRBO. Professional and Reliable. Call 941-756-4570 or 941565-3931

EMPLOYMENT LOCAL LONG STANDING Island Business looking for an experienced full charge bookkeeper/accountant.

Pay Commensurate with experience. Please send your resume to info@ gaunt.com THE WATERFRONT RESTAURANT is hiring all positions Front of House Back of House Full time & PT Very competitive pay Come by in person @ 111 South Bay Blvd Or Call Manger Chef Billy 678-229-8888

Call us today! 941-778-3986

FISHING CHARTERS CAPT. MAC GREGORY Fishing Charters. Full Day, Half Day, Night, Inshore & Near Shore. 941-809-5783 U.S.C.G. Certified/Insured

HOME IMPROVEMENT Michigan General Contractor 30+ yrs. experience. Large or small projects. Budget minded knowledgeable tradesman will complete your project start to finish: On Time/On Budget. Call Mike 616-204-8822.

HOME SERVICES CONCRETE FUSION, CRACK REPAIR sidewalks/ driveways. Why fix 95% of concrete when only 5% bad? Number 1 in concrete repair. Insured.

Free estimate. Call Bobby 941-374-7670.

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE

TILE! TILE! TILE! All variations of tile supplied and installed. Quality workmanship. Prompt, reliable, many Island references. Free estimates.

Neil 941-726-3077

R. GAROFALO’S Interlocking brick pavers, driveways, patios, pool decks. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured.

Call Rafael 941-778-4823 or Veronik 941-526-7941

RENOVATION SPECALIST ALL carpentry repairs, Wash Family Construction, locally owned and operated CBC 1258250 Call 941-7250073.

KERN CONSTRUCTION NEW Homes & Remodel.

Design/Build. Since 1968.

License # CBC 1261150.

Call Mike Kern 941-7781115 GET’R DONE DRYWALL, INC Specializing in Remodels & Repairs. Island Resident for 18 years. Call Neil Cell 941-962-1194 JSAN CORPORATION Renovations Construction & Handyman Services 941-243-0995 Lic# CRC1332505 jsancorporation@gmail. com Flooring, Drywall, Painting, Repairs, Kitchen and Bathrooms, Trim & Doors.

Free Estimates. Credit Cards Accepted.

API’S DRYWALL REPAIR 15+ years experience.

Free estimates. No job too small. Love to help you.

Call 941-524-8067.

ISLAND RESIDENT. TREE/ BUSH Trimming, removal.

Sweeping, blowing, weeding. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly schedule. Pressure washing: driveways, walkways, fences, pool decks/ cages. Call Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315.

SEARAY SPRINKLER SERVICES. Repairs, Additions, Drip, Timer Head Adjustments. Call Rick today Cell 720-299-1661 Office 941920-0775

LOST & FOUND LOST PRESCIPTION SUNGLASSES in black case between Gulf Watch and Beach House Restaurant.

Please call 847-563-8365.

FOUND PACKAGE WITH CAMERA EQUIPMENT including SD cards, Cannon Lenses. Found near 1101 Gulf Dr N Queen’s Gate Resort Call 941-320-2697 FOUND MAN’S WEDDING RING. In Wal-Mart parking lot on Cortez. Call 518822-7315

MOVING & STORAGE MARTIN’S MOVING YOUR Island movers! Offering dependable, competitive rates. No hidden costs. 941-809-5777.

AMISUN.COM

FEBRUARY 2, 2022

PAINTING & WALLCOVERING

REAL ESTATE HOMES & CONDOS FOR SALE

PAINT! PAINT! AND MORE 28 years of experienced interior/exterior custom painting. Pressure cleaning, drywall repairs and texture finishes. Many Island references. Please call Neil for free estimates.

941-812-0507

Have you been thinking of selling? We NEED properties to List for SALE!!! GULF FRONT, CANAL FRONT, BAY FRONT CONDOS or HOMES ASK for BIG Alan Galletto of Island Real Estate to get it SOLD 941-232-2216

“WIZARD OF WALLS” Established 1980 Prompt quality service.

Paperhanging/removal Faux finishes. Interior painting. Mary Bell Winegarden 941-794-0455 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICES. Prompt & Reliable. Island Resident.

Quality Workmanship.

Interior/Exterior. Also minor repairs & carpentry. Free written detailed estimates. Bill Witaszek 941-307-9315

POOL SERVICES FOUR SEASONS POOL SERVICE AND CHEMICAL SERVICES. Certified Pool Operator. 10 + Years Experience.

Residential/commercial. Chemical Service Licensed & Insured. Call Dennis Clark 941-7375657 COLE'S TROPICAL POOL SERVICE Call Cole Bowers for all your pool maintenance needs! Affordable and Dependable!! 941-7131893 POOL MAINTENANCE: Opening February 1st.

STELLAR POOL SERVICE LLC - We offer "Stellar" service at affordable rates.

Call or email us for your free estimate today! 941524-1173 stellarpoolservice1@gmail. com

PRESSURE WASHING & WINDOWS AUTHORITY ONE CLEANING : Residential, Commercial, Construction, Vacation, VRBO Rentals . Also available Pressure Washing, Roof Cleaning, Paver Sealing and Windows. Call 941565-3931.

LOOKING FOR A highly motivated real estate broker to buy or sell your next home? Darcie Duncan, Broker Duncan Real Estate a lifelong island resident bringing success to her customers for 30 years. Proven track record brings you results! 941-725-1589

REALTOR FOR HIRE. BUYING OR SELLING on AMI? 17 years experience & USAF Veteran.

Call Kelly Gitt Keller Williams Realty today 941-799-9299.

RENTALS: ANNUAL GREAT LOCATION! Just off the Island with beautiful views of Palma Sola Bay. 3BR/3BA home completely updated with over 3,000 sq ft of living area. Unfurnished with immediate occupancy with application approval. $4,000 per month. Call Paige Rogers Duncan Real Estate 513-382-1992.

RENTALS: SEASONAL & VACATION

RENTAL WANTED WANTED ROOM TO RENT Mature professional female with no pets or kids needs room. Please call 941-9286033.

SEEKING WINTER 2023 SNOWBIRD Rental. January/February. Close to or on water. 2BR, small pet.

Approximatley $3000/mo.

Call 651-724-2243 email cbcrna!@yahoo.com

TRANSPORTATION AMI TAXI metered-on-callcards accepted. Airport: Tampa $95, Sarasota $40, Clearwater $85, Orlando $195. Call 941-447-8372 or 941-447-8376. amitaxi4u@ gmail.com, www.amitaxi. com ANYTIME TRANSPORTATION to all Airports, Casino, etc. Tampa $70. Sarasota $35. Pets welcome. Very dependable. Reasonable rates. Contact Jeanne.

941-779-5095 AIRPORT RIDES- Tampa, St. Pete, Sarasota. Reasonable rates! Call or text Anna 941-932-1600

FREE

HOME DELIVERY

TIFFANY PLACE Gulf Front Condo for Rent Incredible views from living room and master bedroom. 2BR/2BA Green Real Estate Call 941-778-0455

SEASONAL RENTAL in PALMA SOLA. 3BR/2BA weekly or monthly rates.

Contact Barb Grace 941201-2190 ANNA MARIA ISLAND CONDOS Large pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom $700/$800/$900 a wk. redekercondosonami. com Tim 941-704-7525

Call for Details

778-3986

www.amisun.com

FEBRUARY 2, 2022

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY HOME IMPROVEMENT

HOME IMPROVEMENT

THE SUN

31

Call today to place your ad: 941-778-3986 PAINTING

TRANSPORTATION

32

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THE SUN

FEBRUARY 2, 2022

the Team Duncan Difference!

Local-Area Expertise Outstanding Customer C t S Service i Experienced Professionals Proven Performance

Darcie Duncan Broker - Owner

Cindy Jones Sales Associate

Michelle Laade Sales Associate

April Green Martha Jones Robel Sales Associate Sales Associate

Robyn Hawk Paige Rogers Joey Hutchinson Katie Self Sales Associate Sales Associate Sales Associate Sales Associate

Nancy Howle Sales Associate

William Romberger Sales Associate

Lindsey Leech Strickland Mary Anne Muniz Sales Associate Sales Associate

Home & Condominium Sales • Investment Properties • Vacation Rentals

BOUTIQUE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Vacation Rentals • Annual Rentals • Association Management • Home Watch Service

• Dedicated, multi-lingual rental team • Performance tailored to your needs and expectations • Cutting-edge technology • Trusted by generations of Islanders, property owners, and visitors 310 Pine Avenue Anna Maria, FL 34216

Providing a top-no guest experien tch ce You call and we answer – 2 4/7 Always there for our owners Maximize yo ur revenue

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941.779.0304